ROSS COUNTY, Ohio — The Superintendent of Union-Scioto School District has released a statement to the local news about allegations of sexual assault in his district.
It’s what he didn’t say that has many parents even more upset, or rather, who he didn’t say it to.
“We find the published reports of a potential incident involving a young student in our district deeply disturbing,” said Superintendent Matt Thornsberry. “Keeping our students safe is our top priority, and when we learned of what might have occurred, we immediately reported it to the appropriate authorities. While we cannot comment further, as this investigation is ongoing, we are committed to swiftly finding answers. We share concerns being raised and will conduct our own internal investigation. We remain committed to maintaining the privacy of our students, and we will take additional action as needed when we have gathered further information.”
Parents said they have yet to hear from the district. Thornsberry did not answer the question from the news about the lack of notification to parents, when asked.
The molestation of a 6-year-old old girl happened aboard a Union-Scioto School Bus three weeks ago. To date, district parents have not received a call or message about the incident. It was only when the story was published in the local news on Tuesday that families found out.
A second sexual assault surfaced on Wednesday involving different students.
Carolyn Hice’s granddaughter attend the district.
“Terrible that the school is not proactive in communication,” she said. “Worried for my granddaughter.”
Parent Jason Ball agreed.
“I wonder how many other cases have been swept under the rug or downplayed to avoid bad PR,” Ball said. “Plenty of notifications about picture day coming ….”
Ross County Prosecutor Jeff Marks told the Guardian his office is investigating the allegations.